The Roaming Reporter is the number one source for the 411 in arts, culture, food, music and theatre in Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, Bronx and Staten Island.
Shuga Henry, the Roaming Reporter, journey's through the fantastic boroughs of New York reporting on the amazing happenings.

My adventure began in Montego Bay, St James.
Montego Bay is the capital of the parish of Saint James. It is the
second largest city in Jamaica and the fourth largest by population
after Kingston, Spanish Town and Portmore. Montego Bay is a popular
tourist area. I stayed on the Hip Strip located along Gloucester Ave. The Hip Strip is a long road with hotels, beaches, shops and attractions.

Going to the beach is a must in Jamaica. The clear blue waters and beautiful sun rays make for a perfect day everyday in Jamaica.

Along the Hip Strip you can find beautiful hotels, restaurants and craft vendors.

Margaritaville was a delicious, exciting and entertaining experience. Now, normally when I return to my island I prefer to eat native foods. However, this time my pallet craved something different. I explored the tempting menu and was truly pleased. Each dish was prepared exquisitely. Although the entrees were familiar, each was prepared with Jamaican spices and flavors which created a unique twist.

The Combo Platter was one of my favorites. This beautiful dish was comprised of half a rack of finger-licking baby back ribs, zesty blackened chicken and crispy, deep fried with rich flavor, coconut shrimp served with golden french fries. The dish came with two dipping sauces, tangy bbq and a spicy pepper sauce.

Cheeseburger in Paradise

The Cheeseburger in Paradise was exactly as described. I was definitely in paradise indulging in this scrumptious cheeseburger. It was a basic cheeseburger that I opted to have with crumbles of bleu cheese on top. What made the dish more delightful and fun was the guitar shaped platter it was served on. How cute and clever!

Cheeseburger in Paradise

Honey Mustard Chicken Sandwich

The Honey Mustard Chicken Sandwich was a marinated chicken breast topped with smoke applewood bacon, Swiss cheese, creamy avocado ( known as pear in Jamaica), lettuce and tomato presented in between a soft pretzel bum. I love the concept of pretzel and bread combined. Delicious!

B.O.B

This mamma jamma of a burger was a piece of beefy heaven. The Bacon, Onion, Bleu cheese burger known as the B.O.B was a juicy full-flavored burger layered with smoked applewood bacon, onion rings, drizzled bleu cheese dressing, lettuce, tomatoes and topped with Gorgonzola cheese crumbles served on a buttery brioche bun. I know...that was a mouthful. A big savory, finger-licking mouthful!

Jolly Man

The Jolly Man is a fruity concoction busting with awesome flavor. It was a great companion to the delicious burgers.

Bananarama

Bananarama was a scrumptious delectable dessert. It is stamped as the Caribbean Favorite so it a must have when you visit Maragritaville. This glorious dessert was made with a perfectly ripe banana rolled inside a tortilla shell, fried crisp, topped with luscious chocolate sauce and served with a scoop of rich vanilla bean ice cream. Added as an extra special tasty treat were the freshly made banana chips and whip cream that garnished the dessert. Simply irresistible!

After a extraordinary meal, the fun adventures can begin. Margaritaville has a wild 120ft water slide that winds its way from the rooftop terrace and shoots you out into the beautiful Caribbean sea below. In addition there are two giant water trampolines and a huge water slide.

picture courtesy Margaritaville.com

picture courtesy of Margaritaville.com

picture courtesy of Margaritaville.com

After an action packed fun filled day, Margaritaville offer dynamic nightlife. At night the restaurant is transformed into Club Ville and it totally comes alive. Nightlife includes a great mixture of tourist and locals. The deejays spin a great mix of reggae, dancehall, hip-hop and dance music.

So the next time you're in Jamaica make sure you stop by and visit the Hip Strip. Great adventures await you that will be flavorful and joyous for the soul.

Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Oscar week is here! Get ready for glitz, glamour, red carpet, and movies, movies, movies! The 2014, 86th Annual Academy Awards airs live from the Hollywood's Dolby Theatre on Sunday, March 2, at 7
p.m. EST. The Academy Awards or the Oscars is the
peak of the awards season. I can not wait to see the performances, hear
the fabulous jokes from this year awesome host Ellen DeGeneres. If you have not yet watched all of the movies on the Best Picture list, don't fret. There is still time. So, here is the Roaming Reporter to save the day. Below is a list of this years Best Picture nominees.

BEST PICTURE

American Hustle

Great movie. Awesome team of actors. Jennifer Lawrence was hilarious. This is my pick for Best Picture.

Captain Phillips

Excellent movie. Great acting by Tom Hanks and Barkhad Abdi. This
was Abdi's first project and he knocked it out the park. Good for you
Barkhad.

Dallas Buyers Club

Gravity

Sandra Bullock and George Clooney did and excellent carrying the move. The computer graphics were phenomenal. I really feel Alfonso Cuarón has a chance at Best Director.

Her

I thought the concept for this movie was brilliant. Especially now
that we are living in the era of technical evolution. Although Scarlett Johansson was not visibly seen in the movie, her acting was still quite wonderful. She is a fantastic actor.

Nebraska

Very interesting. I love the way it was filmed. This is on my "hurry up and watch list"

Philomena

This is a beautiful story. I always enjoy watching Judi Dench. She is a marvelous actress.

12 Years a Slave

(I have been following this film since it's debut at the Telluride
Film Festival and the 2013 Toronto International Film Festival. The film
received such artistic acclaim before its wide release. I am also very
excited for Lupita Nyong'sSupporting Actress nomination. This s her first film in America. Yay Lupita! Congrats to Chiwetel Ejiofor. He is an awesome actor. I am glad he is finally getting due recognition. The cinematography and sound design was excellent. However, I don't think it will take home Best Picture.

The Wolf of Wall Street

Wonderful film. Great directing and acting. It was humor and drama all rolled up into one. Congrats to Leonardo DiCapriofor his Best Actor nomination.
I really hope he wins this year. There are many great contenders in
this category, so it will be tough. However, he has yet to be blessed
with a golden statuette. I would be so happy for him if finally this
year is his shinning moment. Also, Congrats also to Jonah Hill for his Supporting Actor nomination.

Best Original Song

After you have finished your Best Picture movie marathon, leave some room for Frozen. This newest Disney movie has taken the public by storm (no pun intended.) It's a great family movie with awesome humor, loveable characters and spectacular music.

BEST DOCUMENTARY – FEATUREThe Act of KillingCutie and the BoxerDirty WarsThe Square20 Feet From Stardom

BEST ORIGINAL SONG
"Alone Not Alone," Alone Yet Not Alone
"Let It Go," Frozen
"The Moon Song," Her
"Ordinary Love," Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom"Happy," Despicable Me 2 ( Congrats to Pharrell Williams on this nomination. I'm so happy!)

There
you have it, the full 2014 list of hopefuls. It's going to be exciting
to learn the final results. Also, you can visit the official Oscarwebsites to print a ballot for your Oscar viewing party and learn more about the spectacular nominees. Cheers and I'll see you on "red carpet."

Thursday, January 16, 2014

So the day has finally come! The 2014, 86th Annual Academy Awards nomination list was announced this morning live from the Samuel Goldwyn Theater in Beverly Hills, Calif. The Academy Awards or the Oscars is the peak of the awards season. I can not wait to see the performances, hear the fabulous jokes from this year awesome host Ellen DeGeneres, ( who I recently learned is from Metairie, Louisiana. Shout out to my Louisiana homegirl) and ofcourse the sensational fashion pieces that will glide down the red carpet. It will be all the rave. The Oscars will broadcast live from Hollywood's Dolby Theatre on Sunday, March 2, at 7 p.m. EST. True, this is not the usual local Roaming Reporter article. However, this is entertainment and who doesn't love entertainment. Now, to the list of this year's nominees:

BEST PICTURE

American Hustle

(Great movie. Awesome team of actors. Jennifer Lawrence was hilarious)

Captain Phillips

(Excellent movie. Great acting by Tom Hanks and Barkhad Abdi. This was Abdi's first project and he knocked it out the park. Good for you Barkhad)

Dallas Buyers Club

(On my "catch up and watch list". However, I have been hearing great reviews. I know it's a film I'm going to love.)

Gravity

(Sandra Bullock and George Clooney were excellent carrying the move. The computer graphics were phenomenal. I really feel Alfonso Cuarón has a chance at Best Director)

Her

( I thought the concept for this movie was brilliant. Especially now that we are living in the era of technical evolution. This is on my "hurry up and watch" movie list)

Nebraska

(Very interesting. I love the way it was filmed. This is also on my "hurry up and watch list"

Philomena

(This is a beautiful story. I always enjoy watching Judi Dench. She is a marvelous actress.)

12 Years a Slave

( I have been following this film since it's debut at the Telluride Film Festival and the 2013 Toronto International Film Festival. The film received such artistic acclaim before its wide release. I am also very excited for Lupita Nyong'sSupporting Actress nomination. This s her first film in America. Yay Lupita! Congrats to Chiwetel Ejiofor. He is an awesome actor. I am glad he is finally getting recognition.)

The Wolf of Wall Street

(Excellent film. Great directing and acting. It was humor and drama all rolled up into one. Congrats to Leonardo DiCapriofor his Best Actor nomination. I really hope he wins this year. There are many great contenders in this category, so it will be tough. However, he has yet to be blessed with a golden statuette. I would be so happy for him if finally this year is his shinning moment. Also, Congrats also to Jonah Hill for his Supporting Actor nomination.

BEST DOCUMENTARY – FEATUREThe Act of KillingCutie and the BoxerDirty WarsThe Square20 Feet From Stardom

BEST ORIGINAL SONG"Alone Not Alone," Alone Yet Not Alone"Let It Go," Frozen"The Moon Song," Her "Ordinary Love," Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom"Happy," Despicable Me 2 ( Congrats to Pharrell Williams on this nomination. I'm so happy!)

There you have it, the full 2014 list of hopefuls. It's going to be exciting to learn the final results. So, if you haven't seen any of the incredible films on the list, you still have a few weeks to catch up before the grand event. Also, you can visit the official Oscarwebsites to print a ballot and learn more about the spectacular nominees. Cheers and I'll see you on "red carpet."

Saturday, January 4, 2014

Sadly the holidays are over and you may have a few containers of eggnog remaining. Now, because everyone is preparing to begin "the New Year diet" you think to yourself, "what am I do with all the nog?" Well don't you fret. The Roaming Reporter has some suggestions. As I roamed around through holidays meeting people and asking "what do you do with left over eggnog," I have finally complied some answers. Enjoy and let me know your eggnog recipe success stories. Cheers! +Shuga Henry

5. Eggnog Hot Chocolate

The winter season is the perfect time for hot chocolate. A little eggnog adds a creative awesome twist. The recipe is super easy and it's delicious!

Photo by Peanut Butter and Peppers

Ingredients

eggnog

milk chocolate squares or coco power

whip cream

vanilla exact

nutmeg (optional)

cinnamon (optional)

In a medium sauce pan add eggnog, vanilla extract and cinnamon to bubble. Then add
the chocolate squares or coco power and whisk all together. Then pour into your favorite mug, top with whip cream and freshly grated nutmeg.

** add a scoop of instant coffee to the mix and create eggnog chocolate coffee. Yum!**

4. Eggnog Cupcakes

I tried this recipe on New Years and the results were quite scrumptious. This is a great companion to the eggnog hot chocolate. Yum!

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line 12 cupcake cups with liners. 2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, baking soda, baking powder, and nutmeg. 3. In a separate bowl, combine the rum, eggnog, vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar and vanilla extract together. 4. Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and beat just to combine. 5. Fill the cupcake liners. Fill about 2/3 of the way if you want flat cupcakes and 3/4 of the way if you want rounded tops. 6.
Bake for about 18 minutes, until toothpick inserted into the center
comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely.

To make the frosting1. In a large bowl, using a stand or electric mixer, whip the butter for a minute or two, until light and fluffy. 2. Slowly add the confectioners sugar, mixing as you add the sugar.3. Continue adding sugar until the mixture becomes stiff. 4. Add the eggnog, rum and nutmeg, and whip until combined. 5. Frost cupcakes as desired. 6. To garnish, sprinkle with ground cinnamon and half a cinnamon stick, if desired.

3. Eggnog Pancakes

This recipe is my favorite. I prepared this for my family on Christmas Eve and it was an excellent hit. This is a quick easy recipe. All I did was replace the milk with eggnog, added vanilla and freshly grated nutmeg. The nutmeg really give it that extra kick.

2. Eggnog Jello Shots

I discovered this recipe on EisforEat.com. Jaymee Sire submitted this delightful drink. I prepared this the day after New Years and it really was a festive party in a cup. Thanks Jaymee for helping me keep the good times rolling. +Jaymee Sire

Photo by EisforEat.com

Ingredients (12 shots)

1 cup eggnog

1 packet Knox unflavored gelatin

3/4 cup vanilla or whipped cream vodka

1/4 cup amaretto

12 small plastic shot glasses

12 cinnamon sticks

whipped cream (go for the can in this instance)

nutmeg or cinnamon (for sprinkling on top)

Instructions

Pour eggnog into a small saucepan. Sprinkle gelatin on top of eggnog
and let it soak in a minute or two so it "blooms." (It will sort of
look like applesauce). Heat over medium, stirring, until gelatin is
dissolved.

Combine eggnog with alcohols into something with a pour spout (such
as a measuring cup). Place plastic shot glasses on a sheet pan and fill
3/4 of the way full. Refrigerate and allow to set four hours or
overnight.

When ready to serve, insert a cinnamon stick into the side of each
shot. Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg.

1. Eggnog Ice -cream

I love ice-cream and I love eggnog. This recipe combines that best of both world. This is my number one favorite recipe I enjoying making during the holidays. Recently, someone shared a twist on the traditional idea with eggnog brownie chunk ice-cream. I tried this new twist and I was in heaven. The marriage of eggnog and chocolate into creamy ice-cream was dreamy. Thanks +shawn syphus for the decadent holiday treat.

Friday, January 3, 2014

My trip to Canada concluded with dinner at Harlem Restaurant in downtown Toronto. I tell you, this was the best food I tasted during my trip. I dinned at the 67 Richmond St. E location of the restaurant. As soon as I walked through the door I feel in love with this eatery. +Harlem Restaurant serves Southern Caribbean cuisine. Now, being a gal of the south and Jamaica W.I., I had to authenticate this concoction of flavor.

I entered the establishment as was mesmerized by the charming hanging red curtain and phonograph that lead to the main dining area. I parted the curtains and was instantly drawn in by the welcoming embrace of the eclectic environment. The warm red covered walls, the intimate space, the beautiful assortment of color infused original paintings, created a soulful inviting atmosphere. I loved the artsy feel of the interior. The owner did an excellent job capturing the art inspired Harlem Renaissance aspect of Harlem, NY.

I had the delightful impromptu opportunity to sit down and chat with owner and chef Carl Cassell.

Owner/Chef Carl Cassell

Shuga: What is the inspiration behind Harlem Restaurant?Cassell:Harlem is the evolution of another restaurant I owned named Irie. Harlem is more inclusive of the entire diaspora. At Harlem we can provide an inclusive menu of Southern and Caribbean style of cooking. The people from the south cook food similar to the way we [Caribbean people] do. Like collard greens which would be our [Jamaicans] version of callaloo.

Shuga: How long has Harlem been in existence?Cassell: We have been opened for 7 years.

Shuga: Why did you choose Harlem as the name of restaurant?Cassell: Harlem is instantly recognizable. I wanted to evoke a response in people that they'll never forget it. Positive or negative, I wanted it to leave "you" with an impression. That's what I wanted to do, "kick the door open."

Shuga: What is the inspiration behind the decor?Cassell: The decor is inspired by the 1920's. The original name was Harlem 1920. As you come through the door you will see the phonograph. It's kind of a 1920's art deco feel. The deep red....gives it a bold feel.

Shuga: I understand you have weekly live entertainment.Cassell: Yes. That was kind of our mantra. That's what created Harlem in a sense.When I had Irie, which has been converted into a Harlem as well, it kind of became the place to meet people. I've been in the city [Toronto] for a while and half of my friends are artists, actors, musicians and Irie became like an impromptu music venue. So when this place [Harlem] opened the idea was to create an artistic space which we provide with a stage upstairs.

Harlem Restaurant has two floors, both of which feature dining rooms with candlelit tables. The top floor has a stage where weekly entertainment is presented.

Top floor stage

After my Q&A, it was time to taste the delicious food. The menu was mounted on a vinyl record which a found to be quite clever. It really tied into the rustic chic theme. There were so many lip-smacking choices. I had a difficult time
choosing. Thankfully Carl Cassell provided some excellent suggestions, and oh was it extraordinary roller coaster ride for my taste buds.

Menu

I went with a group of friends so I was able to sample a few dishes. I started with a Miles Davis cocktail which was a mix of Jamaican Overproof Rum, Peach Schnapps, mango, passion fruit juice and lemon. Cassell said that was a signature drink for Harlem. It tasted smooth and was mixed just right. Next I sampled the Harlem Kool-Aide. This drink was made with Triple Sec, Melon Liquor and cranberry juice. It tasted tangy and sweet with just the right amount of alcohol. It was simply superb.

Miles Davis

Harlem Kool -Aide

We started by sharing a plate of Catfish Lafayette , which was breaded deep fried morsels of catfish served with a sweet chilli mayonnaise sauce for dipping. The breading was seasoned well and the catfish was light and flaky. The dipping sauce added an extra kick. However, I also found the catfish quite scrumptious on its own.

Catfish Lafayette

Mac- n - Cheese

The baked Mac-n-Cheese sprinkled with Parmesan cheese was hearty, creamy and satisfying .

Blackened Salmon

Blackened Salmon is a creole inspired dish-- salmon topped with a seafood étoufee sauce, served with mixed greens and coconut rice and peas. The interesting part of this dish was the mixed greens which was collard greens infused with carrots and celery. I have never had collard greens prepared in such a manner. I found it quite pleasing.

BBQ Jerk Chicken

The BBQ Jerk sauce really made the dish. The sauce was sweet with a hint of spice. I loved it so much I asked for a small container to carry home.

Coconut rice and peas

Rice is a very important componet to the Caribbean dish. This rice was fluffy and light with a pleasant hint of coconut flavor. It came very close to the sweetness of my mother's cooking.

Chicken and Waffles

The signature dish of Harlem is Chicken and Waffles. First, the presentation of the dish was the best I have ever seen. I have been to many restaurants that serve this dish and Harlem's presentation is the most attractive. I love that the chicken came with three dipping sauces - sweet and sour, maple syrup, and scotch-bonet-corriander-lime gravy. The chicken was exquisitely prepared --juicy, tender meat, covered in a thick, crispy batter. One bite and I feel under it's sinfully delicious spell. The waffles were fluffy with a tasty buttermilk flavor.

The dinner was accompanied by a comedy show presented by one of Toronto's top comedians +Quinn Martin. He was very entertaining and a great complement to a satisfying evening.

Quinn C Martin - Comedian

Overall, my experience at Harlem Restaurant was filled with appetizing foods, gracious portion sizes, friendly service and excellent entertainment. The restaurant provided a great taste of the traditional South with new twists of flavors. I truly had a marvelous time and look forward to returning in the future. So, next time your in Toronto, stop on by Harlem Restaurant for a roller coaster ride your taste-buds will never forget. Harlem Restaurant -East

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About Me

A native of the beautiful island of Jamaica W.I., Shuga Henry is a well known director, playwright, producer, singer, actress and teaching artist. The performing arts have always been a staple in her life.

Shuga participates in educational programs for children, adults and seniors. She offers workshops and classes in performing arts, storytelling, creative writing, leadership and social etiquette for schools, libraries, churches and organizations.